New Tampa police bureau focuses on service, safety

Tribune staff

Published: April 1, 2014

A new program designed to improve service and safety at the Tampa Police Department was unveiled Tuesday morning.

The department’s Professional Standards Bureau will focus on quality of service, make sure officers generate clear and concise reports, and ensure that patrol vehicles are kept up to snuff and that equipment in those vehicles is handy and ready for use.

Chief Jane Castor’s patrol car was the first to be inspected at a public unveiling of the program Tuesday morning at the police training center on South 34th Street.

The bureau, which will incorporate Internal Affairs into its structure, will conduct “mini audits” throughout the department.

“The goal is to ensure standards are consistent, efficient and safe,” according to a news release announcing the program.

Castor has reorganized the command structure and assigned four lieutenants to oversee the program.

Four areas will be reviewed by the bureau:

• Use of force and vehicle pursuits.

• Complaints and quality of service.

• Policies, procedures and report writing.

• Vehicles and equipment.

The bureau also will implement new online and roll call training for officers.

“The training will focus on the most dangerous aspects of policing to improve officer and citizen safety,” the news release said. “The training will also help roll out any new procedures to help streamline officers’ duties.”